Life so far

Mark Visser is an Australian big wave surfer, author, keynote speaker, mindset coach and founder of The Ocean Warrior.

Driven by a deep curiosity around human potential and performance under pressure, Mark has built a life that sits at the intersection of extreme sport, mindset and leadership.

In 2014/15, he became the Big Wave Paddle-In Champion, but it was his world-first achievement at Jaws (Pe’ahi), Maui that gained global attention - successfully surfing one of the world’s biggest waves in total darkness. Known as Night Rider, the feat pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible and redefined performance under pressure.

Beyond the ocean, Mark has spent over a decade working as a mindset coach to some of the world’s most successful individuals and teams. His clients include 11-time world champion Kelly Slater, the Australian SAS, US Navy SEALs, Olympic athletes and elite sporting organisations.

From 2019, Mark worked closely with Melbourne FC and then head coach Simon Goodwin, contributing to the club’s first AFL premiership in 56 years, with Goodwin also awarded AFL Coach of the Year. Prior to this, he was involved with Richmond Football Club’s pre-season training camps, working directly with leadership players during their first premiership in 36 years.

At his core, Mark’s work is about helping individuals connect to their highest-performing self, developing emotional intelligence, resilience and the ability to stay clear and connected under pressure.

A few things that shape Mark:

• Influences: Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan and people who live and speak their truth

• Favourite places: Tahiti, Fiji, Hawaii and Queensland, Australia

• Goals: To be the best version of himself, inspire others and be a present husband and father to his two daughters

 more.